Lacey Township Events

4/17/2016 - Forked River Mountain Cleanup Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 1, 2016

FORKED RIVER MOUNTAIN CLEANUP SCHEDULED

The Forked River Mountain Coalition, in cooperation with the Ocean County Parks Department and the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, will conduct the 23rd Annual Forked River Mountain Area Cleanup for Earth Day on Sunday, April 17, 2016. Last year volunteers helped to clean up over 20 tons of trash. Over the past twenty two years, 619 tons (well over one-million pounds) of debris has been removed by volunteers.

The Forked River Mountains are the centerpiece of a vast wilderness located in the Pine Barrens of Lacey Township, Ocean County that contain over 20,000 acres of pristine forests and streams. The area is rich in culture and history and is home to a variety of wildlife including many rare, threatened and endangered plants and animals.

The mountains and the surrounding wilderness are threatened by encroaching development and expanding sand and gravel mines. The Coalition is seeking public support and funding for the areas permanent protection as open space.

The cleanup will offer an opportunity for individuals and groups to get involved in this conservation effort. Volunteers with four-wheeled drive vehicles are especially needed. This year an optional hike is planned for after the cleanup.

If you would like to know more about the Forked River Mountains or help with the cleanup effort, please call the Forked River Mountain Coalition at 609-971-1635 or visit their web site at www.frmc.org.